run over v.1. To be too full and flow over the edge; spill over. Billy forgot he had left the water on, and the tub ran over.2. To try or go over (something) quickly; practice briefly. During the lunch hour, Mary ran over her history facts so she would remember them for the test.The coach ran over the signals for the trick play with the team just before game time.3. To drive on top of; ride over. At night cars often run over small animals that are blinded by the headlights.Synonym: RUN DOWN.